Integrity is defined as the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles (Webster- “definition of integrity”, 2018). Thus, integrity is used in research as well. This includes; the use of being honest and verifiable methods in proposing, conducting and evaluating research (Webster- “definition of integrity”, 2018). Therefore, according to (Steneck, 2006) research integrity may be defined as, “The quality of possessing and steadfastly adhering to high moral principles and professional standards as outlined by professionals, organizations, research institutions and the public”. This is the reason why it is important to adhere and follow the specific rules and guidelines that are associated.
Personally, I find it quite challenging to deduce information from current research and literature. In other words, not giving credit to the original source when needed. I may do it unintentionally at times as some information seems as if it is “basic knowledge” but in fact it is research that has been conducted by another individual and their original thoughts. It is definitely not an excuse as said before; credit should definitely be given where it is due.
Therefore, plagiarism is defined as, “the practice of taking someone else’s work or ideas and passing them off as one’s own” (Webster- “definition of plagiarism”, 2018). In saying that, plagiarism has considerable consequences especially for students as it is a form of being academically dishonest and therefore those who are caught plagiarising should definitely be academically censure. However, according to (Steneck, 2006), “Plagiarism has no necessary impact on the reliability of research as results are results whether or not the person reporting them deserves credit”. There are many consequences associated with plagiarism this being;
• Undermining trust between colleagues, if they are fearful in someone else using their ideas improperly
• It may waste funds-by publishing an article that has been plagiarised
Hence, according to (Steneck, 2006) there are a number of reasons why plagiarism should not be ignored but the impact it has on research is small in comparison to other irresponsible behaviours.
In conclusion, it may be safe to say that research is not entirely and adequately protected from irresponsible practices. This is why personally I believe that integrity in research cannot easily be defined in a one-line definition as it requires the commitments of individuals to be honest intellectually as well as have their own personal responsibility to build up a moral character and gain experience.
References:
Definition of INTEGRITY. (2018) Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/integrity
Definition of PLAGIARISM. (2018) Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plagiarism
Steneck, N. (2006). Fostering integrity in research: Definitions, current knowledge, and future directions. Science And Engineering Ethics, 12(1), 53-74. Doi:10.1007/pl00022268